When thinking about your auditory system, you may only associate issues like hearing loss, earwax impaction and tinnitus with hearing wellness. However, did you know your inner ear contains the vestibular system, which is responsible for sending messages to your brain about balance and motion? Good auditory practices doesn’t just mean healthy hearing, it also means better balance and motion!
Untreated, balance disorders can significantly impact your quality of life; causing dizziness, vertigo and difficult moving. At Harbor Audiology & Hearing Services, we offer comprehensive balance testing and specialized treatments to address these issues and improve our patients’ overall well-being.
Introduction to Balance Disorders
The vestibular system plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and equilibrium. When this complex system is disrupted, it can lead to various balance disorders. Common symptoms include dizziness, vertigo and difficulty maintaining balance during everyday activities. These symptoms can be sudden or gradual, and may be accompanied by nausea, hearing changes or a feeling of fullness in the ears. Understanding these disorders is the first step towards effective treatment and management.
Understanding Videonystagmography (VNG) Testing
Videonystagmography testing is a crucial tool for diagnosing balance disorders. This non-invasive procedure tracks eye movements in response to various stimuli, helping to identify irregularities that may indicate vestibular dysfunction. During the test, patients wear specialized goggles equipped with cameras to record eye movements. The process includes ocular testing, where patients follow moving targets, positional testing, which involves different head and body positions and caloric testing, where warm and cool air is introduced into the ear canal. This comprehensive approach provides valuable insights into the functioning of your balance system.
Comprehensive Balance Testing Techniques
In addition to VNG testing, our hearing professionals utilize various other diagnostic methods to ensure a thorough evaluation of your balance issues. These may include electronystagmography (ENG), which uses electrodes to measure eye movements, rotational chair testing to assess the vestibulo-ocular reflex and posturography to evaluate how well you maintain your balance under different sensory conditions. Each test provides unique insights into different aspects of your balance system, allowing for a more accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
Treatment and Management of Balance Disorders
Once we’ve identified the specific nature of your balance disorder, our team develops a personalized treatment plan. This may include:
- Vestibular rehabilitation exercises to retrain your balance system.
- Canalith repositioning procedures for conditions like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).
- Medication management to alleviate symptoms.
- Lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of falls and improve overall stability.
- Collaboration with other specialists when necessary, like ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists or neurologists.
Our goal is to alleviate symptoms, improve balance and enhance your overall quality of life through a comprehensive approach to treatment. We work closely with you to ensure that your treatment plan is effective and adjust it as needed based on your progress and feedback.
Preparing for Your Visit and Tests
To ensure the most accurate results from your balance tests, our hearing professionals may ask you to follow some simple instructions prior to your appointment! These may include:
- Provide a list of current medications and relevant medical records.
- Inform your hearing professional of any pacemakers or other medical devices.
- Avoid eating or drinking for three to four hours before your appointment.
- Refrain from consuming alcohol the night before.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the tests.
- Do not wear eye makeup on the day of testing.
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement during the tests.
Following these recommendations will help us obtain the most accurate diagnostic information and provide you with the best possible care. If you have any questions about preparation or what to expect during your visit, don’t hesitate to contact our office for clarification.
Taking the Next Step Towards Better Balance
If you’re experiencing dizziness, vertigo or other balance-related issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We offer convenient appointment times, including evenings, at our multiple locations throughout the area. Our offices are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure you receive the most comprehensive care possible. Contact us today to schedule your comprehensive balance evaluation and take the first step towards improved stability and confidence in your daily activities.
